Cinema review (From Barry And District News)

Cinema review

The Sum of all Fears

JACK Ryan has finally made it back to the big screen, but this time he is not a slow, over 40s man - he has in fact taken the youthful form of Ben Affleck. There have been questions whether or not Affleck is the right man for the job, but he's here, and that's that.

A nuclear bomb that was stolen in 1963 has caused great tension between America and Russia. While both countries become unable to trust each other, CIA agent Jack Ryan is forced into the middle of it all. As he tries to find the location of this bomb, he is unaware of the horror that will soon face him.

During the release, members of the US Government criticised the film for being disrespectful after the events of September 11. I believe these were unfair criticisms because they were actually probably afraid of what the public may think of how they rule. In fact, you do really question how you are and whether or not you may be alive tomorrow.

I have no knowledge of previous Jack Ryan films so I can't say whether or not this is a successful instalment. But as a film on its own, it's great. The first hour is very slow and you would be forgiven for being confused with the politics and plot at times, however when the bomb goes off in America (this is not a spoiler), the shock hits you like an atomic wedgie as the film's tone goes to post-September 11.

Not only that, director Phil Alden Robinson has created one of cinema's most gripping hours. As you know all the facts, you become fearful of events and Ben Affleck has helped create some of the tension. He always seems to be criticised, but in every film I have seen him in his performance was first class.

He was definitely the right man for the job and hopefully he will continue with his version of this character in a few more films.

Do not expect this to be a 'popcorn' movie. This is serious stuff so don't expect over the top explosions. What you will get is a slow first hour, but an immensely gripping second hour.